Franchise Industry News & Announcements

May 9, 2013 - Weichert Relocation Resources Inc., a global leader in workforce mobility management, announced that Don Smith has joined the company as senior vice president, business development for North America. In this role, Smith will manage the company’s sales force in the United States and Canada, while overseeing and building the North American pipeline.
An accomplished veteran of the workforce mobility industry, Smith brings over 35 years of experience to Weichert, including deep expertise in sales, business development and client services. He will report directly to Jim Schneider, executive vice president of business development and consulting solutions for Weichert.
“Don is without question considered a leader in workforce mobility business development, and we are excited to bring his insight and vision to our company,” said Schneider...

Consumers maintain optimism regarding Canadian recreational property market, according to Royal LePage survey.
May 17, 2013 // Franchising.com // TORONTO - According to a new survey released today by Royal LePage, interest rates factor hugely into the decisions of Canadian households when it comes to purchasing a recreational property.
The survey, which polled Canadians across the country who either currently own or intend to purchase a recreational property within the next five years, found that most (82 per cent) Canadians say interest rates will influence their decision to purchase a recreational property – and a majority (58 per cent) feel added urgency to buy a recreational property while interest rates are low.
Survey respondents demonstrated overall optimism regarding the Canadian recreational property market...

May 8, 2013 - During the last weekend in April, the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) held its annual Nationwide Open House Weekend. The purpose of the event was to encourage Realtors throughout the country to host as many open houses as possible. The event was a success. In fact, Weichert, Realtors alone hosted more than 3,100 open houses that attracted more than 21,000 homebuyers in the areas where it operates company-owned offices.
“While a special weekend for open houses is great, I believe wholeheartedly that every weekend is a great weekend to hold an open house,” said Jim Weichert, president and founder of Weichert, Realtors. “That’s why open houses are an integral part of our marketing strategy at Weichert...

101 Mobility Utah/Salt Lake City opens as a nationally branded full-service sales, maintenance, and installation provider of a complete line of mobility equipment, including stair lifts, auto lifts, ramps, wheelchair lifts, patient lifts, scooters, pool lifts, ADA compliant accessibility solutions and more. Owner Kyle Binns, along with Co-Owner/father, Richard Binns and Co-Owner/brother-in-law, Stewart Gollmer, proudly represent 101 Mobility’s 26th franchisee opening.
Utah (PRWEB) May 17, 2013 - 101 Mobility Utah is eager to provide client-focused mobility solutions to Utah residents, businesses and veterans who may not know what their options are. The 101 Mobility Utah team will work hard to educate Utah residents about the available mobility solutions that many caregivers, businesses and people living with mobility challenges are simply unaware of...

May 7, 2013 - Weichert Relocation Resources Inc., a global leader in workforce mobility management, announced that Mike Cahill has joined the company as Vice President, Business Development. In this role, Cahill will grow new business opportunities throughout the eastern United States region.
Cahill has 27 years of experience in all aspects of corporate workforce mobility, and he is known for his client-centric, consultative approach to developing unique workforce mobility solutions.
“Mike is a results-oriented and driven leader with a proven track record of successfully developing, implementing and leading strategic business development initiatives,” said Jim Schneider, Executive Vice President of Business Development and Consulting Solutions for Weichert...

May 17, 2013 // Franchising.com // As the first new store in Victoria for five years, The Cheesecake Shop Roxburgh Park looks set to hit the cake out of the park with its initial sales performance.
Celebrating its grand opening on April 17, The Cheesecake Shop Roxburgh Park achieved a strong initial sales result, ranking 13 across Australia in its first full week of trading. During this week, the bakery topped the list as the number one ranked store nationally on Anzac Day.
Nick Avgerinos, National Franchise Development Manager of The Cheesecake Shop, commented, “The Cheesecake Shop has been blessed by the overwhelming interest in its Victorian franchises that resulted in three parties vying to acquire the Roxburgh Park franchise...

May 17, 2013 // Franchising.com // CORALVILLE, IA – Pancheros Mexican Grill (www.pancheros.com), a fast casual Mexican restaurant known for its mouthwatering burritos, announces its 19th Iowa location in Altoona. To commemorate the newest addition to the franchise’s home state, Pancheros will be offering their flavorful burritos for $1 on May 29th from 4p.m. to 6p.m.
The key to Pancheros’ unique burrito experience lies in its famed plastic spatula, “Bob the Tool,” which evenly mixes ingredients to deliver a savory mouthful in each bite. Pancheros also prides itself in serving burritos filled with only the highest quality ingredients, like their marinated grilled meats, bold salsas and fresh vegetables. Pancheros’ popular menu also includes other Mexican favorites such as quesadillas, tacos, burrito bowls and salads...

National fitness and nutrition program unites with country to support runners, their families and all of Boston.
SARASOTA, FL May 1, 2013 – Baby Boot Camp and Karna Fitness will donate $4,168 to The One Fund - Boston, the foundation collecting money to support victims of the April 15 Boston Marathon bombings.
Baby Boot Camp & Karna Fitness offered “Running Stronger for Boston” T-shirts and tank tops through its online store, with all profits donated to The One Fund Boston (onefundboston.org). Babybootcamp.com’s online store sold more than 350 in less than a week.
“With five Baby Boot Camp & Karna Fitness owners who offer their own running programs in the Boston area, we recognize this tragedy has affected many of our instructors and clients,” Baby Boot Camp & Karna Fitness CEO Kristen Horler said...

STAMFORD, Conn. - May 17, 2013 - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Four Points by Sheraton is offering its loyal guests in the U.S. added perks when they book the Get More (Perks Included) package, available now through August 31, 2013. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.’s (NYSE: HOT) “Best for Business” brand has partnered with Southwest Airlines® and Seagram’s® to bring guests more of what they want at a value that they deserve. Travelers who book Get More (Perks Included) enjoy the following:

Complimentary full American breakfast
$25 Southwest Airlines® Fare Saver to use toward a future flight of choice
A refreshing 20 oz. Seagram’s® Ginger Ale at check-in
As always, access to fast and free in-room internet and Wi-Fi in all public spaces throughout their stay

Reservations for the limited-time offer must be made between May 1 and July 31...

World's Largest Restaurant Franchise Wants Your Sites
Meet the Team at ICSC RECon: South Hall 3 & 4, S2800 N Street & 28th Avenue
MILFORD, Conn. - May 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/- With more than 2,000 franchisees actively searching for locations, the SUBWAY® sandwich chain has aggressive growth plans for 2013.
The SUBWAY® franchise system is now the world's largest restaurant chain, in terms of number of locations. In order to reach the company's continuing development goals, a contingent of SUBWAY® representatives will be manning the SUBWAY® booth in South Hall 3 & 4, S2800 N Street & 28th Avenue at the ICSC RECon convention, May 20th thru May 22nd, in Las Vegas.
"Subway developers, field staff and leasing specialists from all across North America will be attending the event to look for sites and make deals so that we can continue to provide career opportunities to entrepreneurs and the great tasting food to people everywhere looking for healthier choices, indulgent favorites and outstanding value," says Chris Kan , Training and Business Promotion Specialist for Subway Real Estate, LLC...

May 17, 2013 // Franchising.com // Oakville, ON - Teriyaki Experience announced today that Marc Lane has joined the company as Director, Operations and he’ll oversee both domestic and international operations for the 130+ unit franchise chain.
Lane brings over 25 years of experience in the foodservice and hospitality industry. His most recent position was as the National Brand Development Director for Sodexo Canada where he was instrumental in fostering the partnership with 15 national restaurant Brands involving over 60 licensed locations. He has also held positions with some of Canada’s top franchise organizations including Little Caesar’s, Druxy’s, Pizza Hut, Mrs. Vanellis, Timothy’s World Coffee, Michele’s Baguette and Topper’s Pizza...

Webinar Demonstrates How You Can Focus on Strategic and Personal Priorities Instead of Minutiae By Clearing Your Desk of Paper
PALO ALTO, CALIF. - May 10, 2013 - Bill.com, the leader in integrated bill payment, invoicing and cash flow management solutions for businesses, today announced that it will offer a free webinar on how to set you and your business paper-free in less than seven days, on Wednesday, May 22, at 1:00 p.m. PT. Registration is available now at http://cashflow.bill.com/PaperFree052213.html?medium=pr.
Eliminating papers liberates you from time-consuming processes that drain your brain and keep you stuck at your desk, giving you more time and energy to focus on strategic and personal priorities. The webinar will feature Barry Yarkoni, CEO of Vinomis Laboratories, which is growing rapidly and has been managed by paper-free offices on both coasts from day one, as well as Joel Andren, Executive Director of Paperless 2013, the paper-free initiative backed by more than 30 innovative tech companies including Bill...

FLINT, Mich. - May 15, 2013 — The Don Pablo's restaurant located at G-3145 Miller Rd. will celebrate its recent re-opening by providing free food for one year to one lucky customer.
The restaurant, which has served the Flint community for the past 18 years, re-opened on April 24, 2013, after closing to repair damage from a fire on July 15, 2012. For a chance to win free food for one year, guests must use their Habaneros Club Card - part of the Don Pablo's rewards program – when dining during the month of May.
Nonmembers can join the Habaneros Club when visiting the restaurant. After May 31, 2013, a winner will be randomly selected from those club members who dined at the Flint restaurant during May to receive a gift card that will be loaded with a $50 credit each month for 12 consecutive months...

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - (Marketwired - May 16, 2013) - The renovations are nearing completion and it's down to the finishing touches. This Saturday, May 18, Giant Tiger unveils a fully renovated store located at 609 Pitt St., Cornwall.
The store has been redesigned to greatly improve the shopping experience for our customers. They will find even more of the same outstanding values, great deals and friendly customer service they've come to expect from Giant Tiger for their fashion, food and home needs - plus a lot more space to shop and a fun new Giant Tiger look!
Store Owner Gerry Oszczakiewicz and his entire team are excited about their newly improved store and invite you to the Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, May 18, beginning at 8:00 am...

Dwyer Brands Named Military Friendly Franchise
Waco, Texas (PRWEB) May 17, 2013 - The Dwyer Group announced that its brands were ranked in the top 10 percent of all franchises nationwide and named on the 2013 Military Friendly Franchise® list by G.I. Jobs Magazine for the third consecutive year.
The Dwyer Group is a series of service-based companies known for its depth of support services, respected management team, commitment to the company’s Code of Values®, and the success of its franchises. The company’s brands: Aire Serv®, Glass Doctor®, Mr. Appliance®, Mr. Electric®, Mr. Rooter®, Rainbow International®, and The Grounds Guys® honor military veterans all year round by offering service members 25% off the initial franchise fee, allowing veterans to use their training and operational skills in a new civilian career...

Enjoy Free Coffee All Day
CANMORE, ALBERTA - (Marketwired - May 17, 2013) - Good Earth Coffeehouse, is proud to announce the opening of a second Good Earth in Canmore, Alberta in the new Elevation Place at 700 Railway Avenue.
Come celebrate the Grand Opening on Saturday, May 25th, 2013. Customers are invited to enjoy FREE coffee all day and sample fresh baked goods. There will be an official ribbon cutting ceremony at 10:30am with Mayor John Borrowman.
Good Earth is looking forward to introducing its new customers to the wide selection of great coffees, cold beverages and tasty, fresh and wholesome food. Good Earth sources the highest quality beans that are roasted slowly in small batches to bring out the best in every bean...

Early Morning Classes and Showers Help Commuters Start the Day Right
PEEKSKILL, N.Y. - May 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ - CKO Kickboxing, one of the fastest growing health fitness franchises, will open its newest fitness kickboxing gym at 8 John Walsh Boulevard, Suite 326, Peekskill, NY, across from the Charles Point Marina on Monday, May 20, 2013. The high quality, cross training gym provides a family friendly setting to Westchester County residents who are looking for an alternative to Pilates, yoga, martial arts and spinning classes.
"We're excited to offer cardio boxing classes in Peekskill," said Jen Zelop , who along with Jen Clark and John Heagle are franchisees of CKO Peekskill.
The 8,000 square-foot gym features 53 heavy bags and is open 6 days a week...

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - (Marketwired - May 16, 2013) - The renovations are nearing completion and it's down to the finishing touches. This Saturday, May 18, Giant Tiger unveils a fully renovated store located at 12334 County Rd. #2, Morrisburg.
The store has been redesigned to greatly improve the shopping experience for our customers. They will find even more of the same outstanding values, great deals and friendly customer service they've come to expect from Giant Tiger for their fashion, food and home needs - plus a lot more space to shop and a fun new Giant Tiger look!
Store Owner Ken Rundle and his entire team are excited about their newly improved store and invite you to the Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, May 18, beginning at 8:00 am...

Get A Grip Resurfacing is pleased to announce that it has been named by G.I. Jobs magazine as a Military Friendly Franchise for 2013. 
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - May 16, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ - Get A Grip Resurfacing, a family-owned, national franchise company with headquarters in Albuquerque, is pleased to announce that it has been named by G.I. Jobs magazine as a Military Friendly Franchise for 2013. This is the third year on the list. The list, compiled on behalf of the 3 million military members and veterans seeking a franchise, represents the top 10% of the nation's franchises doing the most to recruit military veterans.
"One in four returning service members indicate interest in owning their own business. Get A Grip Resurfacing honors military veterans by offering service members by allowing veterans to use their background and training to launch a new civilian career," said Sean Collins, director for G...

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - (BUSINESS WIRE) - May. 17, 2013 - On May 16, 2013, Texas Roadhouse, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: TXRH) Board of Directors authorized the payment of a cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock. This payment will be distributed on June 28, 2013, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 12, 2013.
About Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse is a casual dining concept that first opened in 1993 and today operates over 395 restaurants system-wide in 47 states and two foreign countries. For more information, please visit the Company's Web site at www.texasroadhouse.com.
Forward-looking Statements
Certain statements in this release that are not historical facts, including, without limitation, those relating to our anticipated financial performance, are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties...